The beaches on North Topsail have been "re-nourished" several times in recent years. The fact that nourishment is being proposed (yet again) is testament to the fact that this methodology produces no lasting solution to erosion. Because so much money has been wasted on past nourishment projects, the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA) prohibits North Topsail from receiving federal funds for dredging and nourishment.

Yes, but it is not the wide beach that gently slopes into a long shallow sandy bottom. Cozumel has few beaches like that, and they are all miles from anywhere. You can't have both great fish life for snorkeling/diving and a beach sloping into long shallow sandy bottom. They just don't go together. Sandy bottoms are not conducive to coral formations and fish life.

Contrary to what you may believe, the beach does extend past the Radisson. Padre Island is 34 miles long, and while not all of that is easily accessible from town, the stretch of relatively untouched beach north of the city limits is well worth exploring - especially if you want to get naked and frolic in the dunes. (For more info, see my Clothing Optional Beach page.)

Small recreational beach fires in the ocean shore recreation area are allowed provided they are located in the open dry sands area, downwind of and below beachgrass and the driftwood line; no fires are allowed in dunes or beach log accumulations. No fire shall be placed in driftwood, left unattended or be permitted to cause damage to facilities or natural resources. Every fire shall be extinguished before its users leave the area.

Many safe activities can be enjoyed while the beach is closed to bathing and swimming. Examples include: walking on the beach, collecting seashells, building sand castles, and playing sport activities such as volleyball, paddleball, Frisbee, football, etc.

Think about a beach that is NOT nice white sand. If you are an avid snorkeler then this is the kind of beach you want. If you have children then this kind of beach is not recommended because of the coral.

Dogs are banned from all Blue Flag beaches and should be kept on leads on all areas adjoining the beach. However, the ban, which is normally enforced through bye laws, will only affect the main section of the beach during the bathing season, generally between May and September. Areas which ban dogs should be clearly sign posted. To find out where dogs will be welcomed ring the beach operator/local council to check before going (the telephone numbers are in the guide).

That is not entirely true. We do not have a sheltered coastline and we are not a tropical beach. So our beaches do not have a wide variety of shells to choose from. We have a high energy coast line full of gravel that can break shells into smaller pieces. Storms and waves can bury shells deep in the sand where they will be ground into sand. There are clams, conch, whelk, and even oysters can be found on our beaches. The absence of shells though can also be attributed to collectors.